ABOUT

Paul’s heart lies in traditional climbing, especially in his homeland of Ireland, however he is constantly drawn away on all types adventures to all corners of the earth. Paul is a qualified IFMGA Mountain Guide, meaning that Skiing, Sport Climbing, Ice Climbing, Big Wall Climbing and Mountain Biking are all high on his list of distractions – his main problem in life is having enough time to fit in all the fun! His desire to climb became the basis on which he made most of his life decisions and it’s no surprise that climbing and travelling have taken him all over the world.

Paul not only aspires to experience fantastic adventures and progress his own skills, he has a passion for developing climbing at a grass roots level. After spending a number of years working in Ireland in youth development, he identified the significance of participation and of teaching young climbers the importance of enjoying the mountains responsibly and safely. In addition, he plays a key role in the promotion of climbing in Ireland and set up the very successful Fair Head Climbing meet running it for 10 years.

More recently Paul has been enjoying full time guiding based in Chamonix in the French Alps. This has provided a lifestyle allowing him to enjoy the big mountains for both work and pleasure. Along with this he has been involved in many film and tv projects providing safety cover for some of the worlds best camera operators and athletes!

Paul’s main motivation is to get out there, get stuck in and seek out adventure, whilst maintaining a lifestyle of freedom, quality friendships, good music and good beer. He is great at doing the simple things right and living the outdoor lifestyle…with his van and his dog he’s a happy man – oh and his wife Ellie and now his son Luca!

What is an IFMGA Guide?

An IFMGA Guide is the highest recognised mountaineering qualification in the World.  The IFMGA Mountain Guide is the only qualification valid to work outside UK and Ireland for climbing and off-piste skiing on glaciated terrain.

A BMG Guide has gone through extensive and thorough training over a minimum of 3.5 years to achieve and be able to use the IFMGA Carnet.  This is not to mention the years of experience required just to apply and be accepted on to the scheme www.bmg.org.uk.

Mountain Guides share a common love and appreciation for the mountains. Many have followed this career path to share this love with clients of all abilities in diverse, challenging and varied environments.  You will find the enthusiasm and passion your guide displays is contagious, their love for the mountains will shine through and create an amazing environment for your adventures!